I just think I should go for a walk by myself

These were the words the almost 12 year old had for us a few weeks back. We were thrilled. Independence! Discovery! Exploration! Quiet meditative time alone! Who can't get behind that?

So we sent him off with his electronic leash and off he went.

Did I think perhaps he was off to something illicit? Of course I did. Did I let it go? Pretty much, but you've got to remember, I've got my own 12 year old self to measure him against, and let's face it, genetics are a powerful thing.

So, he goes for his walk while the 8 year old builds a mighty kick ass snowman in the backyard. All is lovely.

Zeb returns, with no great answers to "how was your walk?" No "Oh, Man, I'm gonna do that every day from now on!" or "Oh my God, our neighborhood is filled with major creepazoids, I'm never doing THAT again." Just a "it was fine" and "hey Jesse, cool snowman"

Fast forward to Valentine's day. Scott's not working Mondays and I'm teaching at the school which must not be named till 2. As I generally kind of suck, I've gotten their Valentines treats on the way home from said school. I pull out a card I bought weeks ago for Scott and kind of give my offerings straight out of the CVS bag. Ok, it wasn't that lame, but close. Also, I bought myself some chocolate to make sure Scott could give it to me. No loving hand made valentines gushing with adoration for me this year. Sorry.

Jesse has made us all construction paper hearts and so has Zeb. However, under Zeb's are a package of Malt Balls for Scott, M&Ms for me and Gummies for Jesse. I am not the only one who does their valentines day shopping at CVS, however, he does so with thoughtfulness and foresight and plannning.

Frankly, these are all qualities his dad and I fret about our kids having constantly. But I guess we could fret a little less,because all of this came out of his own desire to do something thoughtful for the people he has to put up with every day.